Leon Osman: Competition is key

Leon Osman has said that competition for places in the Everton lineup will bring the best out of the club in both the FA Cup and Premier League.

The Toffees eliminated Sunderland from the cup competition in midweek to set up a semi-final showdown with rivals Liverpool. However, Osman has dismissed suggestions that the clash could distract his side ahead of their trip to West Bromwich Albion this weekend.

"I don't think it'll be too hard to maintain our league focus," he told the Liverpool Echo. "It's another league game and an opportunity to get more points.

"Each league game could be considered a trial for your place in the team too. There's only so many places.

"That's what managers want. I know that makes it difficult for them, but all we can do is keep performing, take opportunities when we get them and keep pushing."

Everton are in ninth place in the Premier League on 40 points.